Paris to Marrakech Itinerary

Upon arrival in Paris, why not peruse iconic paintings in the Louvre or sculptures in the Musee Rodin. Alternatively, relax in the Jardin du Luxembourg, go shopping in Marais, descend into the Catacombs or scale the Eiffel Tower.

Venture into the Loire Valley, a region renowned for its wealth of art, history and medieval houses. Cycle to the breathtaking Chateau Villandry and take a walk through its manicured Renaissance gardens.

Travel by train into the Dordogne region and soak up its relaxed pace. Explore the striking limestone scenery of the Dordogne River, visiting sights like the towering Chateau de Beynac on a kayaking excursion. In the evening, why not indulge in a decadent degustation meal in a local restaurant.

Step back in time in the World Heritage-listed Old Town of Bordeaux. France's internationally acclaimed wine region is a food and wine lover's heaven, so treat taste buds to full-bodied local blends paired with mouth-watering French fare. If feeling energetic, be sure to clamber up the 243 steps of Saint-Michel Basilica's tower.

Head into the spectacular Pyrenees Mountains. Take in crisp mountain air and awe-inspiring views while enjoying a day of hiking.

Travel to Spain and make tracks for the sunny playground of San Sebastian. While here, soak up the sun at La Concha or head down to the Parte Vieja, which apparently boasts the most bars per square metre in all of Spain. If cultural pursuits are of interest, catch a local bus to Bilbao and lose track of time in the incredible Guggenheim Museum, famously shaped like a ship to flatter its portside location.

Continue onwards to the walled city of Segovia, a picturesque city framed by undulating green mountains. Visit Alcazar, a fairytale castle perched on a cliff and mosey through the World Heritage-listed Old Town.

Discover the captivating Spanish capital, a city bursting with exquisite architecture, superb museums and spectacular nightlife. See timeless masterpieces in the Museo del Prado or visit Reina Sofia to view the Picasso and Miro exhibitions. Perhaps cap off the European adventure with a night on the tiles in one of Madrid's famous nightclubs.

Head west to the university city of Salamanca. Soak up the student vibe on a walk past historic stone buildings to Plaza Mayor and admire the intricate detail of the Casa de Las Conchas, or ‘House of the Shells’.

Travel from Spain to Portugal to sample full-bodied wines, delicious spicy cuisine and enjoy the local tradition of Fado - soulful music about love.

Explore multicultural Lisbon, a charming city with a towering medieval citadel and many interesting museums. In free time, see quirky pieces in the Folk Art Museum, take a day trip into the mountains or sample the nightlife in Barrio Alto.

Venture further afield to the south coast of Portugal. Take the opportunity to bliss out on the beach, explore hidden coves and just soak up the mellow holiday vibe of the Algarve.

Visit Jerez and discover the secrets to a perfect aperitif on a bodega tour or enjoy a tipple of sherry - the drink named after this town. Later, why not head into the Moorish baths to see classic Arabic tiling.

Travel across the Strait of Gibraltar and explore Chefchaouen, a sleepy mountain town peppered with blue-washed buildings and ambient restaurants. While here, perhaps expend some energy on a hike into the Rif Mountains.

Arrive in the city of Fes and step back in time at a medieval medina thick with exotic smells, tastes and sounds. Fuel explorations of this imperial city with a glass of mint tea and some sweet Moroccan dates. After a guided sightseeing tour, maybe unwind at the Palais Jamai in the evening, while the melodic call to prayer floats over the city.

Find everything from genie lamps to leather slippers in Marrakech, an intoxicating city of souqs and mosques. Take a refreshing walk through the gardens at Majorelle Jardin, visit the lavishly decorated Saadian Tombs or end the adventure among the bustle of Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech's bustling main bazaar.